At its Nov. 20 meeting, Bethlehem City Council approved several ordinances and resolutions tied to the city's finances and administrative operations.

Ordinances: The council passed an amendment to the 2025 general fund budget (Bill No. 58 20 25, sponsored by Miss Kwiatak and Miss Grama Smith) and an amendment to Article 1.12 (campaign finance reports) (Bill No. 59 20 25), each by roll call vote of 7–0.

Resolutions: The council approved a resolution to transfer $645,000 from police salaries (account 060140001) to a nonutility account (080142083) to purchase additional police vehicles; the resolution was sponsored by Miss Grama Smith and Miss Leon and passed 7–0. Council also authorized the mayor and controller to execute an agreement with Capacity for Change LLC (Westchester, PA) to assist the Health Bureau in preparing a new strategic plan; the contract amount is $14,700 and completion is expected by June 30, 2026. That resolution passed 7–0.

Procedural grouping: Council moved to group Resolutions 10c–10f for a single vote (motion by Councilwoman Laird, second by Councilwoman Leon); the grouped package, which included certificates of appropriateness for storefront signage and an ADA ramp at East 3rd/4th Street addresses, passed 6–0 after the roll call.

Council emphasized standard practice that amendments adopted at the Dec. 4 budget meeting would be advertised prior to the Dec. 16 second reading and enactment vote. No dissenting votes were recorded on the items taken that evening.

The agenda noted Capacity for Change LLC had facilitated previous strategic plans; the Health Bureau contract will begin work following execution by the mayor and controller. Council members asked that any amendments proposed on the Dec. 4 review be circulated in advance when possible to allow for transparent deliberation.